Thursday, May 14th

I'm hoping that I will be able to keep writing an entry each day, but as you know I'm having trouble finding an adapter-converter to charge my laptop.  We went to the mall this am to try and find one but they didn't have the one I need.  So right now I'm writing my entry from the computer in the lobby.
 
Today was the first day of the competition.  We were up about 8:30 to have breakfast.  We got walk around the city for a bit before we had to get ready to leave for the track.  We arrived at Bergen Racetrack around 1:00, where they had a buffet lunch ready for us.  They informally introduced the drivers and gave them a quick briefing on the rules and regulations of driving in Norway.  In Norway they race only trotters and they are very strict as to what you can and cannot do with the horses.  Keeping the horse on gait is a big part.  If you make a break more than 2x in a race you are automatically disqualified, if your horse makes a break and you don't get it back on stride within 100m they are also disqualified, and lastly if you makes a break across the wire you are disqualified, not matter if you are lapped on or not.  The drivers are also not permitted to carry whips in Norway.  I felt it was a lot for the drivers to take in, in such a short period of time.  You have to completely change your driving style.
 
After the rules briefing we went over to the stables.  The drivers were able to meet some trainers and get some pointers on the horses they were driving.  Jason was also lucky enough to have Pennsbury design a racebike for him and have it sent over here.  He also got to drive in a Norwegian made one and said Pennsbury's was much more comfortable.  After wandering the stables for a bit the drivers had to get ready for opening ceremonies.  They were given the flag from their country to hold and wave and as they were escorted in convertibles in front of the crowd.  It was a great honor to see Jason standing there in red, white, and blue representing not only Maine & New York, but the whole U S of A.  From there the races began. 
 
Jason ended up 9th our of 10th for the day with 18 points.  The leaders Christophe Martens (Belgium) and Brad Forward (Canada) have 35.  When you put it in perspective he is not that far off because one win and a field of 10 would give him 17 more points.  Jason felt he drove every horse well, but just didn't seem to have any trot in the stretch when it mattered the most. 
 
After the races we went back to the hotel for dinner.  The dinners are very formal over here.  You are served an appetizer, your main course, and then dessert.  Dinner just got finished at 12:30 am.  Jason and I are very tired and are headed to get a good night's rest before get on the plane and head to Olso for the races at Biri Racetrack in the morning.  With any luck, maybe we'll rack up some more points tomorrow.  Wish us lots of luck......Go USA!!!